Betty Jayne Kirkland, 82, of Beaver Falls, passed away on December 1st, 2024. She was born in Beaver Falls on June 9th, 1942, to the late James A. Morlan Sr. and Jennie A. (Gatewood) Morlan. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Sherman L. Kirkland Sr., son, Sherman L. Kirkland Jr., and brothers James A. Morlan Jr. and Robert F. Morlan. She is survived by their three children, Teena L. Robinson of Columbia, South Carolina, Gerald L. Kirkland (Leanna) of Beaver Falls, and Lonette D. Allen (Todd) of Dover, Pennsylvania, their five grandchildren: Lonette D. Robinson, Cierra S. Kirkland, Bryce J. Allen, Aliyah N. Robinson, and Kayden M. Kirkland; her seven siblings, Sandra Atkins (Robert), Karen Collier, Deborah Morlan, Ruth E. Rouse (Bobby), and David Morlan (Del), along with a host of nieces, nephews, and friends whom she also loved dearly, including special friends Katherine Tyson and Nita Underwood.
Betty married Sherman L. Kirkland Sr. on August 8th, 1960. Betty was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She graduated from Beaver Falls Senior High School, class of 1960, and attended the Art Institute in Pittsburgh. Betty held many job positions throughout the city of Beaver Falls. What she was most known for and felt the most accomplished in her position as a Gold Liner at Mayer China downtown Beaver Falls on 2nd Avenue. She was a member of the Second Baptist Church of Beaver Falls, where she accepted Christ in 1975. She became an active member by becoming a Sunday school teacher, attended Hardy Bible school, and participated in the following committees: Permanent Records Committee and Decorating Committee.
Everyone that knew Betty, knew how much she loved to create art. She was a master craftsman and was known for impacting the lives of many children through her work. She volunteered her time assisting children with creating beautiful artwork throughout the community for many years. She was a proficient seamstress, artist, painter, baker, quilter, knitter, and also was good with ceramics. The patience, love, and passion that she had for creating art touched many people and was passed on to all of her own children in various ways.
Betty’s sweet, loving, and caring presence will truly be missed. She has touched so many people with her big, contagious smile that we miss already. The simplest of pleasures in life brought great joy to Betty’s heart. Betty was truly a special gift from God to all whom she encountered. Her favorite color was yellow and she was a direct representation of joy, creativity, and happiness just like the color, especially when doing anything crafty. When you think of Betty, celebrate all of the wonderful, timeless memories God allowed those to share with her over the years.
Betty’s Favorite Scripture was Psalm 91:1: “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: My God; in him will I trust.”
Friends will be received Saturday, December 7th from 9:30 A.M. until the time of the service at 11 A.M. at the Second Baptist Church, 2322 10th Avenue, Beaver Falls. Rev. Bernard E. Tench will officiate.
Professional services were entrusted to CORLESS-KUNSELMAN FUNERAL SERVICES, LLC., 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls.